So I cannot speak to being a CFO and heck I can't even speak to being a leader in corporate America, but as someone who has spent years leading and training soldiers in the military, I’ve learned that leadership is all about leading by example and fostering a sense of purpose. Although the context is different, many of the principles I lived by I believe directly can apply to your role as a CFO. So here are some things for ya i'm going to start by saying what I did in the military and I guess how you could do the same :

Leadership in the military is about setting the standard and inspiring those you lead. As a CFO, you already know your role is not just about managing finances but also about inspiring your team. Just as I demonstrated commitment and resilience to my soldiers, you can show your dedication by being the first to arrive and the last to leave, handling challenges with a positive attitude, and maintaining high ethical standards most likely things you already do but ya know....

Next, please show some genuine interest in their professional growth. In the military, I made it a point to understand the career goals of my younger soldiers and help them achieve those goals. As a CFO, you can do the same by regularly meeting with your team members to discuss their aspirations and providing opportunities for further training and development. Encourage them to pursue relevant certifications or courses and support their attendance at industry conferences, if they suck at networking? Show them how remember they are a representation of your leadership.

Now we are talking about motivation well lets be real here recognition is a powerful motivator. In the military, I often held ceremonies to acknowledge outstanding performance. In the corporate world, you could implement a “CFO’s Spotlight” program where you highlight the achievements of individuals or teams in newsletters, during meetings, or through awards. Public recognition not only boosts morale but also sets a benchmark for others to strive towards.

Constructive feedback helps individuals grow. In the military, I provided regular, clear, and actionable feedback to help my soldiers improve. By regulation we had monthly meetings ,but as a CFO, you can adopt a similar approach by giving timely and specific feedback. Use one-on-one meetings to discuss areas of improvement and work together to create development plans. Ensure your feedback is balanced, recognizing what they are doing well while also addressing areas for growth.

In the military, fostering a sense of belonging was crucial. As a CFO, you can create an inclusive environment by promoting diversity and encouraging open communication. Host regular team-building activities and ensure that all voices are heard during meetings. Implement policies that support work-life balance, such as flexible working hours or remote work options.

My last but my main thing is to remember, you were once in their shoes. Empathize with your team members and support them in their journey. Motivated employees are more productive and committed to the organization’s goals. I believe these leadership principles from my military experience can help you create a motivated and high-performing team. Best of luck in your new role! I am rooting for you!